Mullaghcleevaun, at 849 m, is the second highest in Wicklow, with views to match! Given the mixture of terrain and the distance involved (From here, walking time is about 4 hours, climbing 450 metres), map & compass, full wet gear, strong boots and gaiters are essential.
It is best approached from the Blessington side - take the N81 to Blessington, turn left at the Downshire Arms Hotel in the town and head down towards the lake. Turn right onto the bridge and then right at the other end - head for Lacken. In Lacken village (one shop) fork left uphill to the car park at Ballynultagh Gap (GR 044108 - Sheet 56).
Head up the bog road to the top of Black Hill - the road peters out before the top, but keep going uphill!
From the top of Black Hill head roughly South East down to the col - you will see the trail of others gone before. Head uphill from the col in the same direction to the top of Mullaghcleevaun, which is marked by a trig point. The cache is situated 100 paces South West of the trig point, wrapped in black plastic.
Also near the summit is a plaque commemorating 3 An Oige members who perished at sea - this was their favourite spot, and its easy to see why, with commanding views over the surrounding mountains. There was also here, at one time, a sign-post for "Hart's High-level Route" commemorating the exploits of one Henry Chichester Hart, who walked with a companion from Trinity College in the centre of Dublin to Lugnaquilla, returning not by road but directly across Tonelagee and Mullaghcleevaun! This epic was 65 miles long, done in 23 hours and 50 minutes, including 2 hours and 5 minutes rest - over 100 years ago!
The return journey is the exact reverse – take care no to aim too far to the North as it is very steep, followed by bog and forestry - aim too far West and it can be a long, boggy detour
Contents of cache: Logbook, pencil & sharpener Pig Dinosaur Spinning top Reflective arm/leg band Fair Trade badge (e-mail for more info., if required!) Keyring